Ruben Loftus-Cheek

“Playing with some of the best players in the world, you're going to get better every day.”

“I do understand Chelsea are a big club, and there is always pressure on managers to win games and trophies. So I understand they might not be willing to take a chance on someone at a bigger club.”

“I had problems growing up. I had a sudden growth spurt at 15 or 16, and I got a lot of injuries as a result. I gained all this muscle, and my bones couldn't cope. I used to get so tired.”

“It's hard to keep training at your best, but I made sure I did for when the time came, or when I did get opportunities like at Palace.”

“Managers are under pressure and maybe don't want to take a chance on a young player.”

“Always be confident on the ball and have no fear when going out on the pitch. That is one thing young players need to have in their game to develop and play their best football, so that is what I do.”

“Ever since I was in the Chelsea academy, I've had that awareness that people were saying I would be the first one to break through since John Terry. I believed I could, but the opportunities didn't quite come for me.”

“I don't really let the pressure get to me.”

“Every game means something, the supporters are fantastic, and since I've come to Palace, I've learnt to fight as a team and for the three points.”

“I'm confident in my ability that I can do well wherever it is.”

“It was tough, mentally, at Chelsea not getting the game time, but I had to be really patient and have the mentality to still train right and do all the right things.”

“I really liked watching Thierry Henry and Zidane, especially Henry in his Arsenal days.”

“I'm glad I came to Palace because I am getting the game time I wanted. I am also learning to fight with some good players.”

“It was amazing to be playing at Stamford Bridge with the stadium full.”

“My dad produces good footballers.”

“Zidane was just so majestic on the ball, relaxed. He oozed class, and I loved watching him. I remember France against Brazil in 2006. One of those game, I just couldn't believe the class of him.”

“All I do is try to do my best, and I try to enjoy my football as well.”

“I do some yoga, but it's just about managing my back because that step up physically to men's football is big. I know I look big and strong, but it's still hard on my body. But I'm feeling stronger and stronger the more I play.”

“It's hard to compare the faith of Gareth Southgate and Roy Hodgson and my lack of chances at Chelsea because it's such a big club.”

“It's been so difficult to go from playing every game then get to the seniors and not be given a chance. It's really difficult mentally. There's only so long you just enjoy training with top players.”